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Laughter
Therapy
Laughter is said to be addictive. Given its
several health benefits, that is desirable. Firstly it gives a sense of
well being because of release of endorphins and neuropeptides. By ensuring
the inhalation of more oxygen, the lifeline of the system, it makes people
feel better. It also decreases stress, leading to a reduced stiffness of
muscles - muscle relaxation easing headaches, body aches and other
muscular problems.
As blood vessels get dilated, blood pressure
falls by 10-20 mm mercury after 10 minutes of laughter - very useful for
patients suffering from hypertension. With levels of antibodies and
natural killer cells going up with laughter, it also improves the immunity
- evident from thousands of laughter club members who have decreased
incidences of cough and cold.
Laughter also has innumerable other
benefits. It proves a potent anti-stress factor, decreases asthmatic
attacks, increases stamina, relives arthritic pain, ensures good sleep and
elevates mood. Since the serotonin levels go up after laughter, it is an
effective antidote for depression too. Haasya Yoga is a method of group
laughter that is based on yogic techniques.
The exercises are designed based entirely on yoga stretching,
breathing and variety of stimulated laughs, starting with deep breathing.
As simulation helps stimulation, exercise- induced laughter - that
compliments but is not a substitute for natural laughter - increases the
capacity for the latter.
Helping individuals increase their
capacity to laugh more, be more self-confident and self-expressive can
have a positive effect on their health. Moreover, desirable qualities are
cultivated, thereby removing negative emotions as jealousy, fear, guilt
and anger. The laughter club is in effect a behavioral training institute
that spontaneously raises spirits at no cost. The concept of a laughter
bank, where people come up with creative ideas for different types of
laughter, for instance is to bring in play fullness into the atmosphere.
The fun, frolic and childish attitude generated not only reduces all kinds
of inhibitions, but also curtails tensions.
Under certain
conditions however, laughter therapy is not recommended. Patients with
hernia, advanced piles, eye complications, Angolan pain and those who have
just undergone major surgery should not venture into this therapy without
the explicit advice of a doctor. Pregnant woman should also preferably
avoid laughter sessions till some conclusive data regarding the safety is
available. Patients suffering from tuberculosis, chronic bronchitis and
other respiratory infections where phlegm is produced must take precaution
against the spread of infection. Finally, even a normal person
experiencing discomfort while laughing, must discontinue immediately and
seek expert medical help. |
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